Donald E. Kelly

Top rated Criminal Defense attorney in Syracuse, New York

Kelly Law Center, P.C.
Donald E. Kelly
Kelly Law Center, P.C.

Practice areas: Criminal Defense, DUI-DWI, White Collar Crimes; view more

Licensed in New York since: 1996

Education: Syracuse University College of Law

Selected to Super Lawyers: 2017 - 2026

Kelly Law Center, P.C.

205 S Salina St
Ste 400
Syracuse, NY 13202 Visit website
Details

Serving clients in cases of criminal defense from his office at Kelly Law Center, P.C., in Syracuse, New York, Donald E. Kelly brings over 30 years of experience to his practice. Having served as lead counsel in more than 75 cases, he has extensive experience dealing with drug offenses, homicides, murder, weapons offenses, sexual assault and felonies. Extending his services to clients across Syracuse, he brings an understanding and compassionate approach to his practice.

Over the years, Mr. Kelly has built a record that is self-evident. Among the many cases he has handled, he has earned numerous not guilty verdicts in cases involving homicide, rape, criminal possession of a weapon and a wide range of serious felony charges. With experience, he has also built a deep understanding of the criminal litigation process, from the statutes to the prosecution strategies. This allows him to not only build a formidable defense but also dismantle the prosecution’s strategies effectively.

Mr. Kelly's commitment to his clients goes beyond just legal representation; he strives to provide a supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. He believes that every case is unique and deserves a tailored approach, ensuring that each client receives the attention and dedication they need during such challenging times. Outside of the courtroom, he also serves as an arbitrator at the New York Court for the 5th Judicial District.

With an undergraduate degree in political science from The State University of New York, Mr. Kelly pursued his law degree at Syracuse University College of Law in 1992. Since his admission to practice law in New York in 1996, he has stayed committed to providing reliable representation and strong advocacy for his clients. His passion for his work and his professionalism earned him recognition on the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 list.

Practice areas

Criminal Defense, Criminal Defense: DUI/DWI, Criminal Defense: White Collar

Focus areas

Arrest & Arraignment, Assault & Battery, Criminal Domestic Violence, Criminal Fraud, Criminal Law, Drug & Alcohol Violations, False Accusations, Felony, Misdemeanor, Murder, Sex Offenses, Theft

  • 50% Criminal Defense
  • 30% Criminal Defense: DUI/DWI
  • 20% Criminal Defense: White Collar

First Admitted: 1996, New York

Bar / Professional Activity

  • Onondaga County Bar Association, 2026
  • New York, 1996
  • Onondaga County Bar Association Assigned Counsel Program Board of Directors., 2007

Verdicts / Settlements (Case Results)

  • Client received full acquittal on Attempted Murder Charge, 2025
  • Indictment dismissed charging client with child sexual abuse, 2024
  • Identification testimony suppressed in burglary case, 2026
  • Indictment charging client with rape in the first degree dismissed, 2026
  • Client received full acquittal on charges of rape in the first degree, 2025
  • Client charged with felony possession of narcotics convicted of misdemeanor possession at trial, 2025

Pro bono / Community Service

  • I serve as an arbitrator on behalf of the New York State Fifth District Courts in disputes between attorneys and clients in the matter of fees

Educational Background

  • State University of New York at Oswego, B.A., Major: Political Science, 1984-1987

Honors

  • The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100: An invitation-only organization composed of the premier trial lawyers from each state in the nation who meet stringent qualifications as civil plaintiff and/or criminal defense trial lawyers. Selection is based on a thorough multi-phase process which includes peer nominations combined with third-party research. Membership is extended solely to the select few of the most qualified attorneys from each state who demonstrate superior qualifications of leadership, reputation, influence, stature and public profile, Top 100 Trial Lawyers, American Trial Lawyers Association, 2014

Office location for Donald E. Kelly

205 S Salina St
Ste 400
Syracuse, NY 13202

Phone: 315-260-0153

Selections

10 Years Super Lawyers
  • Super Lawyers: 2017 - 2026

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